Community’s support of arts deserves thanks

Although it has been several days since the premiere concert at The Cathedral of Our Lady of Lourdes, celebrating release of the American Guild of Organists’ new CD and cassette recording, “Spokane Organists, Unlimited!,” I feel bound to express my gratitude to the reviewer Travis Rivers and photographer Dan Pelle for the fine coverage in the Oct. 28 IN Life. It was attractive, informative, attention-getting, interesting and most effective.

On Sunday afternoon, an appreciative audience of 900 filled the Cathedral to hear 14 of the 21 Guild member organists, featured on the new AGO CD, provide a sampling of the fine music heard weekly at area churches and recorded for all to hear. In this day, when there is so much popular entertainment competing for people’s time, attention and affection, it is a great thrill for me to see so many show up for a concert on the King of Instruments. To this gracious and appreciative audience, we organists, say thank you!

However, I also want to express my delight in what happens when individuals and organizations work together.

Without the dedication of the organists, there would have been no performance to record and no concert to attend; without the financial support of individuals, churches and businesses, there would have been no funds for production; without the many volunteer hours of Paul Quam, who spent countless hours recording and editing, there would be no recording; and without the support of the media, particularly The Spokesman-Review and KPBX, there would be no audience like last Sunday’s.

I celebrate this community’s ability to work together for the arts and support one another; thank you, one and all! James E. Barrett Organist/Director of Music, The Cathedral of Our Lady of Lourdes